Kenya Visa for Italian Citizens 2026: eTA Requirements & Guide

Do Italian Citizens Need a Visa for Kenya in 2026?

Yes. Italian citizens require a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Kenya. Italy is not on the visa-exemption list, and Kenya abolished visa-on-arrival in January 2024. The eTA replaces the traditional visa and must be obtained online before departure.

Kenya Visa Types for Italian Travellers

Kenya offers three main eTA categories relevant to Italian tourists and business travellers:

• Tourist eTA (Single Entry): For leisure, sightseeing, and short-term visits. Valid for 90 days from issuance; allows one entry.
• Business eTA (Single Entry): For business meetings, conferences, and professional activities. Also valid for 90 days; single entry.
• Transit eTA (Single Entry): For travellers passing through Kenya to another destination, valid for up to 3 days.

Once you arrive in Kenya, immigration officials determine the actual duration of your stay at the port of entry—it will not exceed 90 days.

Kenya eTA Fees for Italian Citizens (2026)

Kenya's eTA system offers two processing speed options with different pricing:

Processing Speed	Processing Time	Cost (USD)
Normal	Up to 72 hours (3 business days)	$30
Expedited	Immediate processing	$30 + $100 expedite fee

Note: These are the official government fees from the Kenya eTA portal. Third-party visa agencies may charge additional service fees; always confirm the total cost before submitting payment through their platform. Each traveller, including infants and children, requires their own eTA and must pay the full fee.

Documents Required for Kenya eTA Application

Before applying, gather the following documents:

• Valid Italian passport: Must have at least 6 months validity from your date of entry and at least 1 blank page (2 pages recommended).
• Digital passport photo: Recent colour passport-type photograph (selfie accepted for eTA).
• Email address and phone number: For application updates and eTA delivery.
• Travel itinerary: Your intended arrival and departure dates.
• Accommodation booking confirmation: Hotel, lodge, or Airbnb reservation details.
• Return flight ticket: Proof of onward travel (optional but recommended to strengthen your application).
• Payment method: Credit or debit card for the eTA fee (Visa, Mastercard, American Express accepted).

For business visits, you may also need an invitation letter from your Kenyan business partner or host company, though this is not always required for the initial eTA approval.

How to Apply for Kenya eTA Online

The application process is entirely online and takes 10–15 minutes:

1. Visit the official portal: Go to etakenya.go.ke, the official Kenya eTA website operated by the Directorate of Immigration Services.
2. Create an account or sign in: Register with your email address if you are a first-time applicant.
3. Select your eTA type: Choose Tourist, Business, or Transit based on your travel purpose.
4. Complete the application form: Enter your personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, contact information), travel plans (arrival/departure dates, accommodation), and health information.
5. Upload your documents: Scan and upload your passport biographical page and passport-type photograph.
6. Review your information: Double-check all entries for accuracy before submitting.
7. Pay the eTA fee: Select your processing speed (Normal or Expedited) and pay via credit/debit card.
8. Receive your eTA: The approved eTA will be emailed to your registered email address. Print it and carry it with your passport.

Important: Only apply through the official etakenya.go.ke portal or the Kenya Travel Authorisation mobile app—never through unauthorized third-party websites.

eTA Processing Times & Validity

Aspect	Details
Normal Processing	Up to 72 hours (3 business days)
Expedited Processing	Immediate (same-day approval)
eTA Validity	90 days from issuance
Number of Entries	Single entry (apply for a new eTA each visit)
Maximum Stay	Up to 90 days (duration determined at port of entry)

Your eTA is valid for travel within 90 days of approval. If you plan multiple trips to Kenya within a year, you will need to apply for a separate eTA for each visit. The eTA does not guarantee entry—immigration officials retain the right to deny entry based on health, security, or other grounds.

What Happens at Kenyan Immigration on Arrival

When you arrive at a Kenyan port of entry (airport, land border, or seaport):

• Present your documents: Have your passport, printed eTA, and any supporting documents (hotel booking, return flight) ready for inspection.
• Health screening: You may be asked about yellow fever vaccination status. If you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic country and cannot prove vaccination, you may be denied entry or required to be vaccinated on arrival.
• Immigration interview: Officers may ask about the purpose of your visit, duration of stay, accommodation, and financial means.
• Stamp and duration: If approved, your passport will be stamped with your permitted stay duration (typically up to 90 days, but the officer determines the exact period).
• Currency declaration: Kenya has no restrictions on currency entry, but you cannot exit with more than 100,000 Kenyan Shillings (approximately $775 USD) in local cash without permission.

Ensure your eTA is printed and kept accessible in your carry-on luggage during your flight.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements

While not mandatory for entry from Italy, yellow fever vaccination is highly recommended if you are visiting rural or wildlife areas, and it is required if you are arriving from endemic countries (such as Tanzania or Uganda). Obtain your vaccination at least 10 days before travel and carry your International Certificate of Vaccination.

Transit Through Kenya

If you are transiting through Kenya to another East African destination:

• You need a Transit eTA, valid for up to 3 days.
• Transit fee is typically $21 USD (confirm on the official portal).
• You must have proof of onward travel (flight ticket to your final destination).

If your layover exceeds 3 days or you leave the airport, a standard Tourist or Business eTA is required instead.

Extending Your Stay or Changing Your Status

The Kenya eTA cannot be extended once issued. If you wish to stay longer than your approved duration:

• Apply for a new eTA if you leave and re-enter Kenya (each eTA is valid for a single entry only).
• Contact the Department of Immigration Services in Nairobi for special permission if you need to change your visa status while in Kenya (e.g., from Tourist to Business or Work Permit).

Work permits require separate application through official channels and should be arranged before arrival.

Common Mistakes & Rejection Reasons

Avoid these common errors when applying for your Kenya eTA:

• Passport validity: Your passport must have at least 6 months validity from your entry date. Applications with insufficient validity are rejected.
• Incorrect passport number: Double-check your passport number character-by-character; any mismatch will cause rejection.
• Incomplete travel itinerary: Provide specific arrival and departure dates. Vague dates like "sometime in August" will be rejected.
• Missing accommodation details: Include a confirmed hotel or lodge booking confirmation (or Airbnb reservation).
• Poor-quality photo: Use a clear, recent colour photograph with your face fully visible and a plain background.
• Applying too close to travel: Apply at least 3–5 business days before your flight to avoid delays if additional verification is needed.
• Using third-party sites: Only apply through etakenya.go.ke or the official mobile app. Fake visa websites exist and will steal your money.
• Overstaying: Exceeding your approved duration can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans.

Overstays & Penalties

If you remain in Kenya beyond your approved departure date:

• You will be liable for an overstay fine (typically KES 500–5,000 or more, depending on duration).
• You may be detained and deported at your own expense.
• You could face a multi-year entry ban to Kenya.

Always check your passport stamp to confirm your permitted stay duration and plan your departure accordingly.

Applying for Safaris & Travel on Your Kenya eTA

Your Kenya eTA permits entry for tourism and leisure. Once approved, you can book safari packages throughout Kenya—from the iconic Maasai Mara to Amboseli and Tsavo. When researching safari operators and lodges, confirm that your chosen outfitter is reputable and that your booking includes all necessary permits for national park entry. You can compare safari packages and reviews on SafariFind to find operators that suit your budget and interests.

Before You Travel: Final Checklist

• ✓ Passport valid for 6+ months with at least 1 blank page
• ✓ Kenya eTA approved and printed
• ✓ Yellow fever vaccination (recommended; required if arriving from endemic countries)
• ✓ Travel insurance (recommended, especially for safari activities)
• ✓ Hotel or lodge bookings confirmed
• ✓ Return flight booked
• ✓ Sufficient funds (no currency restrictions, but carry traveller's cheques or cards for safety)
• ✓ Emergency contact information and copies of important documents

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Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. This article is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa requirements, fees, and procedures change. Verify all details on etakenya.go.ke or contact the Kenya Immigration Services before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Italian citizens need a visa for Kenya?

Yes. Italian citizens must obtain a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival. Kenya does not offer visa-on-arrival for Italian passport holders, and the eTA must be applied for online before departure.

How much does a Kenya eTA cost for Italian citizens?

The Kenya eTA costs $30 USD for normal processing (up to 72 hours) or $30 + $100 USD for expedited processing (immediate approval). Third-party visa agencies may charge additional service fees; always confirm the total on the official etakenya.go.ke portal.

How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA?

Normal processing takes up to 72 hours (3 business days). Expedited processing provides immediate approval for an additional $100 fee. Apply at least 3–5 business days before your flight to be safe.

How long is a Kenya eTA valid for?

The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. You must travel within this 90-day window. Once you arrive in Kenya, immigration determines your actual stay duration (typically up to 90 days).

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA on arrival?

No. Kenya abolished visa-on-arrival in January 2024. You must apply online and receive approval before boarding your flight. Applying without an approved eTA will prevent you from boarding.

What documents do I need to apply for a Kenya eTA?

You need a valid Italian passport (6+ months validity, 1 blank page), a recent colour passport photo, your email and phone number, travel itinerary (arrival/departure dates), accommodation booking confirmation, and a payment method (credit/debit card).

Is yellow fever vaccination required for Kenya?

Yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory for entry from Italy, but it is highly recommended for safari and rural areas. It is required if you are arriving from yellow fever endemic countries (such as Tanzania or Uganda). Obtain vaccination at least 10 days before travel.

Can I extend my Kenya eTA?

No. The eTA cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a new eTA. Each eTA is valid for a single entry only.

What happens if I overstay my Kenya eTA?

Overstaying can result in fines (KES 500–5,000+), detention, deportation at your expense, and a multi-year entry ban. Always check your passport stamp and plan your departure before your approved date expires.

Can I apply for a Kenya eTA for my children?

Yes. Every traveller, including infants and children, requires their own eTA and must pay the full fee. Include your child's valid passport number and personal details in the application.

Where do I apply for a Kenya eTA?

Apply only through the official Kenya eTA portal at etakenya.go.ke or the Kenya Travel Authorisation mobile app. Never use third-party visa websites—they are fraudulent and will steal your money and personal information.

Can I use my Kenya eTA for business and tourism?

You must choose either a Tourist eTA or Business eTA at the time of application. If your trip involves both activities, apply for the Business eTA, which covers both purposes.